TGIF is a new(ish) feature at one of my absolute favourite blogs, GReads!, hosted by the lovely Ginger. It's a way to celebrate the impending weekend, and answer fun questions. Most of all though, you get to know a wee bit more about all those awesome bloggers you meet. So, what are you waiting for? Do your own post and head on over to link up!
What's your process for writing book reviews? Any tips or suggestions you would recommend to other bloggers?
First off, I think it's important for me to say that I truly don't believe that there is a right or a wrong way to review a book. Honestly, the only thing you need is an open mind and a true, honest and just opinion. That, however, you can only garner from actually reading, or truly attempted to read a book. It's taken me almost two years to develop my reviewing process, but I've finally nailed it, I believe, and I've made it a true and accurate portrayal of my opinions regarding books. Here's how I review.
1. I read the book. No matter if I struggle or not, I read the book. If I can't finish it, I won't review it.
2. I take brief notes on what did and didn't work for me.
3. I write my own synopsis for the book. Doing so allows me to convey to the reader how I read the book and what I saw going in.
4. I talk about the writing. There are some styles of writing that work well for me. Others miss the mark. Usually, however, there is something about the prose that speaks to me, and I try to highlight that.
5. I ponder characterization and plot points. This is all-inclusive, meaning anything regarding those has to be worked into the review for it to be coherent.
6. I give it a rating on a five-scale. Without doing so, I'm unable to quantify both for myself and for my followers exactly how this book differed from others.
What about you? Do you review books in a specific way?
